TNAG-0374-FCO40-420-Discussions-with-Sir-Murray-MacLehose--Governor-of-Hong-Kong-1973 — Page 84

CONFIDENTIAL

C

NEW TERRITORIES: HEUNG YEE KUK

1. A large delegation from the New Territories visited the

United Kingdom in June as guests of the Chamber of Chinese

Traders. Mr Royle hosted a Reception for the delegation at

Lancaster House and the Chairman, accompanied by 7 other

members of the delegation, called on Mr Royle on 19 June.

2.

At this meeting the Chairman expressed the Heung Yee Kuk's

fears about the implications of the McKinsey Report on the

affairs of the New Territories. The post-McKinsey reorgani-

sation splits up responsibilities for New Territory admini-

stration between the Secretaries of the Environment, Housing

and Home Affairs. The Heung Yee Kuk set up a Sub-committee

on the question and have now submitted their views in a letter

to the Governor. They have recommended the appointment of a

"Secretary for New Territory Affairs" of equal status and not

subordinate to the Secretaries for Home Affairs, Environment,

Economics, Housing, Security and Social Services. They suggest

he should concurrently be the District Commissioner, New

Territories.

3.

If the question comes up, Mr Royle might like to ask the

Governor how he thinks the Heung Yee Kuk will react if he is

unable to meet their wishes, and the position of the District

Commissioner remains diminished. Would this be likely

seriously to affect good relations and co-operation between

the Hong Kong Government and the New Territories?

Hong Kong & Indian Ocean Department

7 September 1973

CONFIDENTIAL